Previewing the new Bendigo Library

The library was designed with sustainable principles in mind, and part of this is the 'Lantern'. A massive skylight in the roof admits light into the 'Lantern' structure, which then disperses and reflects the light through both levels of the library. This helps reduce lighting costs and carbon footprint, and the tint in the Lantern glass keep the light feeling warm. (: Fiona Parker)

The new library has 13 screens scattered around the building. This one, surrounded by DVDs available for borrowing, is in the library's upper level. Project director Marg Allen jokes that mayor Barry Lyons will be in to watch the cricket regularly. "And the football," Barry added. (ABC Local: Fiona Parker)

The view from the top level of the children's space over to the main body of the library, with the cafe in the background. The new library has a multi-level children's space with 'hidey-holes' for children to play in, and a reading/story-telling area. (ABC Local: Fiona Parker)

One wall of the main area of the library, showing the wood and bamboo finish. Through the library, the design uses strong lines and angles to create a contemporary feel. (ABC Local: Fiona Parker)

Despite modern designs, there are only so many ways you can shelve books. (ABC Local: Fiona Parker)

Library designers have used clear signage to both make it easy for users to find their way through the library's shelving system, and to echo the library's clean and contemporary design. (ABC Local: Fiona Parker)

The new library features a wall-length display of historical documents and artifacts curated by the Bendigo Art Gallery. (ABC Local: Fiona Parker)

"On time and on budget" is how Bendigo's mayor Barry Lyons describes the $9.5 million new Bendigo Library.

But it's much more than that; it's a brand new light-filled community space, with a cafe, purpose-built children's area, state-of-the-art theatrette, meeting rooms and free wifi throughout.

The library also features warm wood angle finishes, sustainable design and materials, and an arcade-style walk-through from Lyttleton Terrace to Hargreaves Street.

To reduce carbon footprint, the external walls of the old library have been retained and a huge skylight lets in natural sunlight. Plenty of exposed concrete helps cool the air inside, along with the new air-conditioning plant. Energy use is tracked on two screens in the building.

In all, there are 70,000 items including books, CDs and DVDs.

The library opens to the public at 9.00am on Tuesday 28th of January 2014.